Entire police force of La Union town sacked over killings

TUGUEGARAO CITY, Philippines – The entire police force of Tubao town has been relieved following another killing  in the area.

Provincial director Senior Superintendent Ramon Puruganan said only Senior Inspector Benigno Sumawang, who was designated officer-in-charge last Thursday following the relief of Senior Inspector Luis Liban, was spared.

The latest killing involves a man who was allegedly gunned down by his son and nephew near the house of Mayor Dante Garcia in Barangay Leones. The murder occurred a day after Liban’s relief.

Puruganan said the police force should start with a clean slate to initiate reforms in the enforcement of law and order in the town.

It was only last Tuesday when Region 1 director Chief Superintendent Franklin Jesus Bucayu relieved Liban over unsolved killings and other crimes in the area.

Among the unsolved murders in Tubao were those of barangay councilman Rodolfo Estoque and former vice mayor Lazaro Gayo.

Bucayu said the Philippine National Police in Region 1 has launched a relentless drive against criminality, especially in preparation for next year’s elections.